The immune system of the body acts as a defense mechanism against disease and infections. When the immune system of the body is weak, it becomes easy to fall ill from flu and cold. In order for you to stay healthy and keep your immune system in top form, you need to eat foods rich in vitamins and anti-oxidants to help boost your body’s immune system and they include.
1. Yogurt
Yogurts such as Greek yogurt help improve your immune system and help fight diseases. They are a great source of vitamin D which is known to help boost the body’s natural defense against diseases. Plain yogurts are a healthier option compared to sweetened flavors that are loaded with sugar. You can blend plain yogurt with healthy fruits for a more sweetened taste.
2. Green Tea
Green tea is packed with flavonoids and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) which are powerful antioxidants. These antioxidants help to enhance the body’s immune function. Green tea also provides the body with L-theanine an amino acid that produces compounds that helps in fighting germs and infection.
3. Poultry
Chicken or turkey soup helps to protect the body against infection and also improves symptoms of flu and cold. They contain a high amount of vitamin B-6 which helps in the formation of red blood cells. Poultry bones are a great source of chondroitin and gelatin which assist in the body’s immunity and gut healing.
4. Nuts
Nuts such as macadamia and almonds are a great source of vitamin E which is essential for a healthy immune system. Fat-soluble vitamins are essential to preventing and fighting off infection and nuts are packed with fat soluble vitamins.
5. Ginger
Ginger is a great ingredient for dealing with inflammatory illnesses. You don’t have to wait till you are ill before adding ginger in your diet; it is also a major ingredient in preparing a variety of sweet desserts. Ginger is effective in reducing sore throat and nausea; it contains gingerol which helps in reducing the cholesterol level in the body and in treating chronic pain.
6. Red Bell pepper
Red bell pepper is a good source of vitamin C and beta-carotene which helps to boost the immune system of the body and also helps in keeping the skin and eyes healthy.
7. Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits such as oranges, tangerines, limes, lemons, tangerines, and grapefruits are a major source of vitamin C which helps in building the body’s immune system and in the production of white blood cells which is important in fighting infections. For a healthier lifestyle, it is advisable to take fruits daily after meals to add a squeeze of natural vitamin C to your diet.
8. Broccoli
Broccoli contains a high amount of vitamin A, C, and E, fiber and antioxidants which all play an important role in fighting infection. It is one of the healthiest vegetables available and should be a major addition to your diet if you are looking to improve your immunity system.
9. Garlic
In addition to having immune boosting properties, garlic also reduces the hardening of the arteries and blood pressure. It’s also a major ingredient in almost every fine cuisine available in the world.